What we can do
Hems and length
We’ll take it up to the length you love, working around pleats, lining and the shape of the hem. Want it longer? That depends on the spare fabric inside, or we can talk about adding a panel.
Waistband adjustments
A loose waist can be taken in, and a tight one can often be let out. We’ll make sure the zip and fastenings still sit nicely with the new fit.
Shape, pleats and lining
Tapering, reshaping, changing the pleats or repairing a lining: we’ll check how the skirt hangs and suggest the change that suits it best.
Repairs and fastenings
A broken zip, loose seam or worn patch can usually be fixed. We’ll show you the likely finish and let you know if any new parts are needed.
Linings and pleats
Adding or removing a lining changes how a skirt feels and falls. We can also add pleats or folds for volume and movement, if the fabric suits them.
How much does it cost?
Pleats, lining, fabric, waistband construction and hem width all affect the price.
| Alteration | Indicative price |
|---|---|
Skirt hemmingPleats and very wide hems can take the price above this guide.Extras
| $35–$85 |
These are guides for the named alteration on one garment, not fixed quotes or maximum prices. Listed extras are added to the guide price and can be combined. Fabric, finish, construction and any other extra work can change the price, so we’ll always check your garment and confirm the quote before we start. Express surcharges are extra.
Price guide reviewed 20 October 2026.
Length, shape and the way a skirt hangs
Pleated, lined and full skirts
Pleats, lining and the width of the hem all change how a skirt is shortened. A narrow pencil skirt is a different job from a full evening skirt or one with a decorative edge. We’ll work out which details to keep and make sure the lining sits neatly underneath. Bring the shoes you’ll wear, so we can find the right length together.
Waist fit and reshaping
Changing the waist can involve the zip, fastening, pockets and several seams. Tapering or reshaping changes the whole silhouette, so we look at the full fit before we start. To make a skirt longer, we need spare fabric in the hem or a suitable added band. We can fix damaged linings, loose seams and fastenings at the same visit.
Your questions
Can a lined skirt be shortened?
Absolutely. We finish the outer fabric and the lining separately, so they sit beautifully together.
Can you change the shape of my skirt?
Often, yes. We’ll talk through tapering or reshaping and work around the pockets, pleats and original design.
Can pleats or decorative folds be changed?
Often. Some pleats are part of the skirt’s structure, so changing them can be bigger work than taking in a side seam. Bring a photo of the shape you want and we’ll talk it through.
Can you alter an evening skirt?
Of course. Tell us your event date and bring the shoes and undergarments you’ll wear. Layers and embellishments can mean more work than the price guide covers, and we’ll confirm your price first.
Can a skirt be let down after it’s been shortened?
Only if there’s enough fabric left, and the old fold or stitch marks may show. If you think you might want it longer one day, tell us before we shorten it and we’ll keep some hem inside.
How long will the work take, and is express available?
Most simple jobs are ready in 3–5 days, and more complex work in 1–2 weeks. In a rush? Express options are available for an extra fee. Just tell us your deadline. Express rates are 30% for same-day, 20% for next-day and 10% for two-day work, or 40% for same-day and 30% for next-day on Saturdays. Express depends on how busy we are, so we’ll confirm it and your pickup time before we start.